In the heart of Albuquerque’s International District, Sharon Griego’s routine of enjoying music with friends outside her apartment complex has been disrupted by growing safety concerns.

An Unsettling Incident

What happened to me on Wednesday was uncalled for, I live here! This is supposed to be my safe home, Griego expressed, recounting an unsettling encounter with an unhoused woman. Griego highlighted ongoing issues with individuals frequently accessing the property, including the interior of the complex.

Our hallways in our apartment complex are full of homeless people, our stairwells are full of people smoking fentanyl, you know, she explained, painting a picture of the challenges faced by residents.

Urgent Need for Action

Griego’s recent altercation, where she was bitten by one of the individuals, underscores the urgent need for addressing homelessness and safety concerns in the area. Despite police intervention, Griego emphasizes the necessity for a more comprehensive approach to the problem.

How many more people do I have to go through before it is going to get dealt with? How many more people are going to become homeless? she questioned, reflecting the frustration of many residents grappling with similar issues.

Community Response

Seeking solutions, KOB 4 engaged with the Albuquerque Community Safety Department (ACS) to address the escalating situation. ACS highlighted the International District’s highest call volume in the city, urging residents to report incidents promptly.

Walter Adams, ACS manager for Mental Behavioral Health Field Operations, encouraged community members to utilize ACS services, emphasizing proactive intervention over emergency responses. ACS operates round-the-clock, offering shelter referrals and additional resources to those in need.

Promoting Assistance Over Confrontation

Adams stressed the importance of compassionate intervention when encountering unhoused individuals, advocating for addressing underlying mental health issues and facilitating access to support services.

When you come across individuals the best thing to do is the care and concern for that individual to get them the help they need. To try and address like I said underlying issues with mental health and why they are out and unsheltered, he elaborated.

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In Conclusion: A Call for Collaborative Solutions

Sharon Griego’s plea for action resonates with many facing similar challenges in Albuquerque’s International District. As the community grapples with rising homelessness and safety concerns, a collaborative effort between residents, local authorities, and support services becomes imperative to ensure a safer and more secure environment for all.

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